HC Deb 08 April 1970 vol 799 c543
38. Mr. Goodhart

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how many British troops will train in Malaysia according to his present plans; and what will be the estimated cost of that training.

Mr. Hattersley

Under our present plans about 3,000 troops, including Royal Marines and the R.A.F. Regiment, will train annually at the Commonwealth Jungle Warfare Centre in Malaysia from 1971 onwards. The estimated annual running costs of the Commonwealth Jungle Warfare Centre will be about £1½ million to £¾ million, of which the United Kingdom share will be in proportion to our use of the centre.

Mr. Goodhart

Will the Minister confirm that the number of units involved in training in the Jungle Warfare Centre amounts to two infantry battalions and 10 infantry companies a year?

Mr. Hattersley

That is broadly correct, but it may vary from year to year.